Law Summary
Objectives and Rationale for the Family Planning Program
- The program aims to arrest high infant and maternal mortality rates.
- It emphasizes safe motherhood and child survival.
- It recognizes the constitutional right of Filipinos to freedom of conscience in deciding the number and spacing of children.
- Family planning methods must align with religious and moral beliefs in a democratic society.
Family Planning as a National Health Priority
- Family Planning is a nationally mandated priority public health concern.
- It is a critical part of the Philippine Population Management Program.
- The goal is to achieve population levels conducive to individual and family welfare.
- Supports sustainable development goals (Philippines 2000).
Role of Local Government Units (LGUs)
- LGUs are primarily responsible for promoting health and safety under Sections 16 and 17 of the Local Government Code.
- They must provide basic health services including family planning and population development services.
- Active involvement and support of LGUs are necessary for nationwide implementation.
Duties of Local Chief Executives
- Governors, mayors of component cities, municipalities, highly urbanized, and independent component cities are directed to:
- Promote the Family Planning Program as a priority through advocacy and use of local resources.
- Ensure availability of information and services for all family planning methods, including Natural Family Planning, at appropriate service levels.
- Adhere to quality of care standards set by the national program.
- Ensure family planning practice is voluntary, respecting freedom of conscience and sanctity of life.
- Provide adequate budgetary support.
- Coordinate with national agencies, especially the Department of Health and Population Commission.
- Engage non-government organizations and the private sector in public-private partnerships.
Key Principles
- Voluntariness and respect for conscience are central.
- Quality and accessibility of family planning services must be ensured.
- Collaboration between government entities and private/non-government sectors is encouraged.
Implementation and Effectivity
- The Executive Order took effect immediately upon signing on February 28, 1996.
- Signed by President Fidel V. Ramos and Executive Secretary Ruben D. Torres.